It is nearly impossible to read the Columbia women’s basketball record book without seeing Ellen Bossert’s name in nearly every statistical category. More times than not, her name can be found at the top of the list.

Individually, Bossert has definitely left her mark on the Columbia basketball program. She holds the top three spots in single-game scoring with 39, 38, and 33 points, and also holds the top two spots for both single-season scoring (598, 470) and rebounding (355, 335).

It took Bossert just two years to become a member of the elite 1,000 Point Club, finishing her career with 1,068 points.

It becomes clear that her offensive numbers were dominant, but her defensive skills proved to be equally as impressive. During her senior year, Bossert had 70 steals, which still ranks first to this day in the Lions’ history books.

Serving as a co-captain during her final year, she helped the Lions to one of their most historic seasons as they captured the New York State Association of Intercollegiate Athletics for Women Championship. In recognition of her outstanding play in the tournament, Bossert was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Her Lions advanced to the NCAA Division III Regionals before ultimately placing third. Bossert was named to the NCAA Regional All-Tournament team.

The ECAC Eastern Player of the Year, Bossert was additionally named to the Fast Break magazine All-America first team and All-Northeast Region in 1986.

Bossert has translated her leadership ability to her professional career. She currently serves as the Vice President of Philips Color Kinetics, where she helps spearhead the conversion of the world’s lighting from incandescent, halogen, and fluorescent to solid-state solutions. She lives in Boston.